The Experience

The Via degli Dei passes here: a heavenly trek which touches peaks named after Etruscan Gods. It is easy to imagine tired hikers’ eyes lighting up at the sight of the whitewashed farmhouse with its fringe of leafy trees – and speeding towards Alessandra’s heartwarming welcome. But it’s not just for walkers. It’s also the perfect launch pad to discover the bustle of Bologna, Florence and Ravenna. Two self-contained apartments, each on their own floor, are accessed separately from the main house. Both are open-plan, with a nifty kitchenette where you can rustle up simple meals. The chunky beams, painted iron panel beds and old-fashioned lamps are set off beautifully against the tiled floors and walls. Plentiful windows let in the light and reveal stunning views of the landscape – particularly breathtaking as you soak in the tub. Or you could do as the Romans, and bathe in one of the clear streams nearby. Your generous hosts serve hearty breakfasts: homemade cakes, eggs, cold cuts from the region, and Pinza – a delicious shortcrust cake. When it’s fine you can eat under the wisteria-laden pergola. Blissful.

Reviews

We had an absolutely wonderful stay with our three year old son. The room was huge and very nice with a large super king bed. But the best thing about this place is the owners. I have never received a warmer welcome, they were brilliant with our three year old and in the morning after a lovely breakfast, Doretana taught us how to make fresh tagliatelle. I would not only stay again, but would like to go and live there! The house is on the hiking path from Bologna to Florence and the surrounding countryside is stunning. A very special place.

The neighbourhood

Local points of interest from Alessandra Marchi

Immerse yourself in the stunning natural park Prati di Mugnano, discover an important site for wildlife and conservation containing examples of natural countryside which have survived for hundreds of years

Enjoy the beautiful paths for hiking, mountain bike and horse ride in the park

Discover the large natural reserve “Contrafforte Pliocenico” in which the park lies and that reminds us that once the sea covered this territory. Look for the fossils and be impressed by the fascinating sandstone rock shapes

Did you know the radio was born here between these hills? Take a moment to visit the Museo Marconi and find out about the beginnings of a genius

Would you like to know the secrets of the traditional Bolognese Lasagne, Tagliatelle and Tortellini? Ask my mum Loredana!